Possible Explanations The significant increase in passing rates during 2023 has left many nursing faculty scratching their heads. From the sample items provided by NCSBN, the exam items appeared to be much more complex and a dip in pass rates was anticipated by many people. Anecdotal data from students who took both the previous NCLEX, and the new NGN exam felt it was easier because of the clinical application of items. One thing that appears to be evident is that test takers were prepared for the NGN format. Schools of nursing and faculty across the nation educated themselves and their students for the anticipated changes. The National Council of State Boards of Nursing began introducing NGN research in 2017, allowing adequate time for dissemination of information. Another factor that supports the increase in scores is the adjustment to polytomous scoring. NCSBN NCLEX allowed for three different scoring methods, depending on the item. With the launch of NGN, NCSBN also initiated plus/minus (+/-) or “partial credit” scoring for all multiple-response items (select all that apply) and not just the NGN items. This allows test takers to benefit from obtaining partial credit for answers for which previously they would not have received credit.
Logit Changes A logit is a statistical model that predicts the probability of an event taking place. The NCLEX has used a base logit score of 0.00 since April 2013 to determine whether a candidate passes the exam or not. When a score above 0.00 is achieved, a candidate passes the exam, but if the score is negative, the candidate doesn’t answer enough questions correctly and fails. Every three years, NCSBN reexamines the logit score, often initiating adjustments that make the exam more difficult to pass. In reviewing trends over the last several years, it can be anticipated when a logit change may occur. The circled scores indicate a logit change, whereas the arrows indicate a change in the Test Plan.
When analyzing these trends, it appears that if previous behavior supports future behavior, a logit change may occur with the next Test Plan update in 2026 if outcomes remain high.
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